We often press our children to perform because we feel that their success reflects on our parenting skills. This is a terrible burden to place on your children, which can cause performance anxiety and impact personal relationships.

Heartbroken parents across the country are reeling in the aftermath of the tragedy at Sandy Hook, making it seem impossible to establish a sense of calm in this storm. Still, children need parents who feel solid and sure. Here are some tips for managing your anxiety.

Writing gratitude lists or journals, sending thank you notes and saying thank you are meaningful practices that help children, teens and adults embrace both the "me" and the "we" by seeing the positive impact that simple acts of kindness have on other people and themselves.

When you can stand, even for a moment, in the truth of who are you, you can begin to respond to the incessant lies that are keep you stuck behind the brick wall of resistance. And then you will begin to break through and find your way to freedom.